GES3420 - Researching Human Environments

Leader: Dr Alexandra Gartrell

Offered

Clayton First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit is directed at providing students with experience in applied research. Students will be introduced to the characteristics of information and instruction in the appropriate presentation of information and data. The nature of Geographical Information Systems is explained and examples of their use in research will be presented. Students will be introduced to the preparation and use of questionnaire surveys, interview and qualitative research methods. Students are required to develop a research project of their own choice. Workshops are also included and designed to assist students in compiling and reporting on their research findings.

Objectives

By the conclusion of this unit students are expected to have satisfactorily demonstrated the following outcomes:

1. an ability to choose the most appropriate methods for analysing a particular data set
2. a capacity to manipulate data
3. an understanding of sampling techniques; basic ability in questionnaire design, coding and analysis
4. basic interviewing techniques
5. an understanding of some of the ethical issues involved in conducting human geographical research
6. a capacity to produce high quality research reports
7. an awareness of the limitations of geographical data
8. an understanding of various methodological approaches

Assessment

Field Report (2500) : 40%
Project Proposal (1000) : 20%
Participation : 20%
Examination : 20%

Contact hours

3 hours (2 hour workshop and 1 hour practical) per week

Prerequisites

2nd year sequence in GES or permission of instructor

Prohibitions

GES2490